Overview: What’s Happening
Due to the federal government shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may be delayed or temporarily reduced.
Florida’s Department of Children & Families (DCF) continues to process applications and recertifications, but payments could be disrupted depending on federal funding updates.
More than 215,000 households in Miami-Dade County rely on SNAP, making this one of the most affected counties in the state.
If You Need Food Assistance Now
Call 2-1-1 Miami
2-1-1 Miami is the county’s official helpline connecting residents to nearby food pantries, hot meal programs, rent and utility aid, and senior services.
- Dial 2-1-1 (24/7, multilingual)
- Text your ZIP code to 898-211
- www.211miami.org
A trained specialist can help you find the closest available food distribution site and other emergency assistance.
Where to Find Food Distribution Events
➤ Feeding South Florida
The region’s largest food bank and the official Feeding America partner for South Florida.
- Find drive-thru and mobile food pantries: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/directory-programs
- Call: (954) 518-1857 (for Miami-Dade and Broward Counties)
- Email: clientservices@feedingsouthflorida.org
Feeding South Florida updates its schedule daily and works with dozens of partner sites across Miami-Dade County
➤ Farm Share
A statewide nonprofit distributing fresh produce and groceries through community and drive-thru events.
- Event calendar: www.farmshare.org/food-distributions-florida
- Find a food pantry: www.farmshare.org/farm-share-find-agencies-food-pantries
- Call: (305) 246-3276
- Email: information@farmshare.org
Farm Share partners with local nonprofits, schools, and churches to host free food distributions open to all residents.
➤ United Way Miami – Food & Housing Assistance
In response to the federal government shutdown, United Way Miami has launched a limited, one-time food and housing assistance for Miami-Dade County residents and federal employees affected by delayed income or benefits.
- Eligibility:
- Miami-Dade County residents
- Federal employees (with documentation) or households impacted by delayed federal benefits
- No more than two months behind on rent or utilities prior to the shutdown
- What to Expect:
- Requests reviewed within 3 business days
- Approved aid sent directly to landlords, utility companies, or service providers within 5-10 business days
- Apply & Learn More
- www.unitedwaymiami.org → Apply Here: United Way Miami Government Shutdown Assistance
Additional Resources
Florida DCF SNAP Information
Official updates on benefit processing and eligibility
www.snap.myflfamilies.com
Miami-Dade County
County-run directory of local partners and emergency distribution sites
www.miamidade.gov/global/initiatives/food-distribution
City of Miami
Resources available to local families and individuals in need of assistance
www.miami.gov/Community-Health/Assistance-Resources/Help-for-Families-Individuals